R.J. Kizer's origin story unfolded in Long Island City, with his childhood abode situated in the neighboring state of New Jersey. This formative environment would later influence his creative pursuits. Kizer's academic trajectory led him to the prestigious NYU film school, where he honed his craft and earned a degree. Following his graduation, he ventured into the New York film industry, where he spent several years gaining valuable experience and building his professional network.
However, his career trajectory took a significant turn when he made the bold decision to relocate to California. This move proved to be a pivotal moment in his life, as it opened up new opportunities and allowed him to collaborate with the legendary Roger Corman. As a film editor, Kizer worked on several notable features under Corman's guidance, further refining his skills and developing his artistic voice.
Eventually, Kizer decided to take the leap and transition into directing. His directorial debut was marked by a string of low-budget cult classics, including the 1988 film "Hell Comes to Frogtown" and the 1992 feature "Death Ring". These projects not only showcased his versatility as a filmmaker but also left a lasting impact on the world of independent cinema.
